Mutants, Slayers and Jedi Oh My!

Holy hiatus, Spiderman! The podcast is back with three more episodes. Recorded pre-covid (hey, remember those times?) James and Giselle discuss the 1998 slasher-fest “Halloween: H20.” The two compare and contrast the 1998 return of Laurie Strode to the 2018 one, how chardonnay drinking axe wielding Laurie is… kind of amazing, and how adorably 90s this sequel is. Check it out! The post Ep. 58 Halloween: H20 first appeared on Defective Geeks.

You read that right, this week the hosts talk about the 1987 live action science fiction fantasy extravaganza “Masters of the Universe.” James and Giselle dive in and discuss how utterly 80s the setting is (so much Aqua Net), some behind the scenes factoids, and how the movie is pretty much The Skeletor Show. As it SHOULD be. Listen and check it out!

Since it is October and therefore the perfect time to talk about all things witchy the hosts this week decided to talk about one of their favorite witchy flicks, “The Witches of Eastwick.” Yeah! James and Giselle go through this 1987 classic and discuss its themes of feminism, its allegory of the patriarchy, and how the Devil is pretty much a f*ckboy. Also, Veronica Cartwright forever. Check it out!

Ahhh, yes. Time to finally delve into a movie about mutants! “Days of Future Past,” you ask? Nah, been done already. “First Class,” maybe? Pffft, it was just okay… “Logan,” you wonder? Please, don’t be rude. This week the hosts talk about what was clearly the, uh, *best* mutant movie, “X-Men Origins: Wolverine.” Uh huh! James and Giselle jump in and discuss what made the 2009 superhero flick so… special… along with semi-rewriting the movie in the process. In other words Julia Sugarbaker should have been in it. Listen and you’ll understand.

Maypoles, shrooms, and bear suits… Oh my! Yep, this week the hosts talk about the very pretty and very creepy “Midsommar.” James and Giselle discuss their individual takes on the story, character motivations, the unique use of horror, and the subtly insidious nature of the community (or “Swedish Death Cult” as the hosts call it). Also, don’t piss on ancestral trees. Bad things happen when you piss on ancestral trees.

And I… Will always looove yoooou! Yeah, we figured we should start the description the same way the movie started. Yes, we are proud. Anyway! This week the hosts talk about “Spiderman: Far From Home.” James and Giselle discuss how the movie does as an individual story, how well it also works as the end cap to this entire MCU Phase, and what makes this particular franchise stand out. Also, can Mysterio become the new Loki, please? Pretty please? Check it out!

Vampire Pomeranians, yes! This week the hosts talk about the ending chapter of the Blade franchise, “Blade: Trinity.” In this episode James and Giselle talk about the origins of the character, the fact that Blade was the first full Marvel movie franchise (hell yeah!), and discuss the differences between the first two movies and the third one. P.S. This episode was recorded before the VERY exciting SDCC announcement of a Blade reboot, but it can be said here that the hosts are pretty damn stoked for it ;)

Everybody has their bad days, right? This week the hosts discuss the movie that captures, hands down, the best fictional mother ever in John Waters’ classic “Serial Mom.” She’s dedicated, loyal, and sometimes commits a little homicide. Nobody’s perfect! James and Giselle talk about what they love about this movie, its satire and subversion of suburbia, ways it has aged well and ways it hasn’t, and how you should never piss off Kathleen Turner.

It’s the fiftieth episode! Whoa! To commemorate this special occasion the hosts decided to talk about a movie that captures pinnacle of 21st century feminism and storytelling, a movie we can all look back on as a society and feel pride. We are obviously referring to 2004’s “Catwoman.” In this episode James and Giselle dive into this delightful little train wreck and discuss its oddly endearing charm, its downright absurdity, Sharon Stone, and how they wish there could be a hybrid of this Catwoman and Netflix’s “You.”

It’s time to go back to the Chilling Adventures of our gal Sabrina and talk about the second season, or second part should we say, of the show! Yeah! In this episode James and Giselle discuss all things season two and touch down on story progression, character choices (some they agree with, some they don’t), representation, “fridging,” and most importantly the ascension of our favorite, Ms Lilith.

Welcome back, everyone! This week the hosts discuss a horror movie neither of them had seen before *gasp*. That movie is the 1972 cult classic “Children Shouldn’t Play with Dead Things” directed by Bob Clark. Yes, the same Bob Clark that directed “A Christmas Story.” Crazy, right? In this episode James and Giselle break down the movie; Giselle admits that for the first thirty minutes she thought the protagonists were carnies (they’re theater actors), and James is fascinated by the hyper intelligent zombies that specialize in yachting.

Time to go back to another horror classic! Don’t worry, horror fans, you have not been forgotten ;) This week the hosts talk about the 1962 horror cult classic “Carnival of Souls.” James and Giselle discuss why they believe this movie has stood the test of time and become influential in the horror genre along with going through the movie and dissecting what it is about it that makes it just so damn good! Check it out!

Professor Cardigan Hulk. I love you 3000. Patriotic posteriors. You guessed it, this week the hosts talk about the cinematic pop culture event of the decade, Avengers: Endgame! Yeah!! In this episode James and Giselle marvel (hardee har har) over the path that led up to this very movie, its saga and potential legacy, and they dive into the movie as they discuss the things they loved, the things they thought needed some improvement, and just reveling in the sheer epic-osity of it all.

This week the hosts talk about the one, the only, Captain Marvel! Yeah! James and Giselle go over the movie, how successfully it ties in as a prequel to the MCU, give a little history on the character Carol Danvers, and discuss how the movie worked with the 1990s setting and early versions of characters (P.S. they kind of love 90s Nick Fury). Oh, by the way the movie is actually about a flerken named Goose.

This week the hosts revisit a movie from their childhood to see whether or not it held up. This movie is the 1956 classic “The Bad Seed.” Who else remembers or has seen this movie?! Anyway, James and Giselle discuss the different elements of the movie as far as which aspects have aged well and which ones are unfortunately rather dated.

It was only a matter of time before the hosts talked about DC’s latest… Aquaman! Buckle up because this week James and Giselle disagree on almost everything concerning this flick, but you know what they did agree on? The unsung hero of the movie, the true and obvious victor of this adventure; Karen! Oh, by the way Karen is the name they gave to the creature Karathen because they couldn’t remember the name. Also there are a lot of *amazing* nautical puns in this episode, so you’re welcome in advance.

Do you like psychological Southern Gothic horror? More importantly do you like movies where Bette Davis wears old dresses and is stuck in a time long since past? Well, you’re in luck because this week the hosts talk about “Hush… Hush Sweet Charlotte.” Yay! James and Giselle dive into this spiritual sequel to “Whatever Happened to Baby Jane,” discuss the story behind the making of this movie, and realize that it may have also been the inspiration to “Death Becomes Her.” Also, make sure to go to IAmHexed.com to check out the Kickstarter to that amazing series!

What kind of fans of the pantheon that is Hollywood and cinema would the hosts be if they didn’t eventually discuss the camp trash dumpster fire classic that is “Mommie Dearest.” Oh, that’s right! It’s time! This week James and Giselle discuss and break down this cult phenomenon along with some “behind the scenes” factoids, their own feelings as to why it has become a cult hit, and the unavoidable fact that despite the movie’s absurdity, it is ultimately based off an upsetting and true story.

“But you ARE, BLANCHE!” That’s right, this week the hosts go delicious vintage and talk about the iconic “What Ever Happened to Baby Jane.” James and Giselle discuss the intriguing backstory and feud between its two stars, how that real world relationship undeniably adds to the experience of the movie and affects its story, and how much times have (and haven’t) changed as far as ageism and sexism in Hollywood.

“NOW a warning?!” Not only is this the hosts’ favorite line from this week’s topic, the ever macabre and fabulous “Death Becomes Her,” but also a warning that James and Giselle spend the good majority of this episode quoting the hell out of this movie ;) This week the hosts discuss how well the movie has, ahem, aged, and argue why this movie’s themes are still relevant now. Check it out!

It’s time for another throwback! This week the hosts discuss the 90s slasher classic “I Know What You Did Last Summer.” James and Giselle discuss how well the movie has held up, what made it stand out from other horror movies of the time, and how they would redo the movie now with all the same actors and with random musical numbers. Still playing teenagers, to be clear. They know, it’s brilliant. 

This week the hosts are talking about the best bro-mance/romantic comedy of 2018. Two people, both outcasts, who come together and through their crazy journey realize that they in fact belong together. You guessed it, this week the hosts are talking about “Venom.” (Okay this movie was totally fun and ridiculous but you cannot deny that epic-bromance). Check it out! 

This week the hosts talk about the one… the only… The Dark Knight! James and Giselle dive into this superhero classic and discuss what makes it stand out, their own experience seeing it when it premiered, how it changed and legitimized the genre, and generally just gush about how it’s such a good freaking movie (pssst, it’s because he’s Batman). ;) 

It was only a matter of time before the hosts talked about everyone’s favorite homicidal ginger haired doll. Nope, not Annabelle, Chucky! Yes, this week James and Giselle dive into “Child’s Play” and talk about how Chucky stands out in the horror pantheon, how it’s aged, and ask why is it that single moms in horror movies are always dropping the ball. Seriously, why is that a thing. 

Full disclosure: The majority of this episode is James and Giselle endlessly gushing over “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.” If you loved it too, check it out! The hosts discuss why this the best Spider-Man movie to date, they invent two new characters “Spider-Vamp” and “Spider-Hipster” (#SpiderBlessed), they talk about what they hope for the future of the series, and figure out which Spider-Verse they are! Take the quiz to find out who you are (https://www.buzzfeed.com/spiderversemovie/which-spider-man-are-you-actually) ;)

It’s time to get back to the murky world of “Black Mirror,” this time the hosts dove into the “choose your own adventure” special “Bandersnatch.” James and Giselle played it individually, so they compare and contrast their adventures, discuss this format of storytelling, their intentions and hopes for the main character/player, and what they hope to see with future “choose your own adventure” stories. 

It is time to talk about the “A Midwinter’s Tale” chapter from Sabrina, or as the hosts like to call it, “The Sabrina Solstice Spooktacular!!!” James and Giselle discuss the Winter Solstice themed horror delight, how they liked it as a standalone, which things worked versus things that didn’t, and how the episode looks to bridge the gap and introduce shenanigans for Season 2. 

    Two things that James and Giselle love: Horror and Sarah Michelle Gellar. Naturally it was only a matter of time before they talked about… “The Grudge!” Yes, this week the hosts talk about the 2004 American remake of J-horror classic “Ju-on”, their impressions of the movie then versus now, how the movie has aged, and what makes J-horror unique from other facets of the genre. Oh, and they both do their death rattle impersonation, so fair warning :O  

    Something witchy this way comes! That’s right, this week the hosts talk about the first season of Netflix show “Chilling Adventures of Sabrina.” In this episode they discuss what they felt were the strengths of this contemporary adaptation, its commentary on patriarchy and toxic masculinity, the different ways the show succeeds along with addressing some of its problematic elements, story structure, and what they hope for the second season. And very importantly they find out whether they are more a “Hilda or a Zelda.” Take the quiz along with us and tell us your answer! https://www.popbuzz.com/tv-film/chilling-adventures-of-sabrina/hilda-or-zelda-quiz/  

    No matter the time of year it’s always a good time for Elvira! That’s right, this week the hosts talk about “Elvira, Mistress of the Dark.” James and Giselle discuss what it is about Elvira that makes her so iconic, along with talking about all things fun, ridiculous, and campy about the movie. Unpleasant dreams ;)  

    Welcome back to Fright Night… for real. That’s right, this week the hosts talk about the 2011 remake of ‘Fright Night’ written by Marti Noxon! Yeah! James and Giselle discuss the different ways the story has been modernized for contemporary audiences, how that changed various elements including characters and tone, how it has a dash of commentary, and they compare the different strengths between the 1985 original and the 2011 remake. Oh, and they are pretty sure that this movie is actually an episode of Doctor Who.  

    Guess what? The hosts are talking about “Halloween” 2018! Yeah!! This week James and Giselle discuss and gush over the long awaited sequel. They talk about the evolution of Laurie Strode, how the movie pays tribute to the previous ones, Human-o-lanterns, alligator moats, and banana pudding. We swear it’s all relevant. And we are pretty sure Michael Myers needs his own Pinterest page.  

    Who loves talking about 1980s vampire flicks? James and Giselle do! This week the hosts talk about 1985 campy classic “Fright Night.” They discuss everything from Jerry Dandrige as a vamp villain, Amy’s ever growing fabulous 80s hair, Peter Vincent’s theatrical make up, and how the movie is one big love letter to the 1960s vampire horror genre.   

    James and Giselle dive into the wonderful world of mullets, The Doors, shoulder pads, musical montages, and vampires. That’s right, this week they talk about “The Lost Boys”. The hosts discuss what makes this a stand out movie in the vampire genre, how it influenced “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” and how Dianne Wiest was everyone’s 80s mom.  

    This week the hosts talk about not the first, but the SECOND “Nightmare on Elm Street” movie. That’s right, Freddy’s Revenge! James and Giselle discuss the movie’s unique quality as far as having a “final boy” as opposed to a “final girl” and how that flipped the script with the horror/slasher movie formula and unintentionally added new themes. Oh and they totally discuss the homoeroticism. Duh. I mean DUH.  

    This week the hosts talk about the 2006 male witch flick “The Covenant.” That’s right, boy witches! YEAH. James and Giselle talk about all the facets the fun cult movie including the characters’ totally necessary love of swimming, male friendships, favorite characters, and how this was a glorified CW episode (yes, please). They also realize how the movie is really a tragic failed romance between Chase and Caleb. Check it out!  

    Have you heard of the 2005 classic SyFy Original movie “Mansquito”? Well, you have now! The hosts break down and discuss all the fun and absurdity of this made for TV movie while also talking about what is about SyFy Original movies that are so damn fun. P.S. You can see this movie for free on YouTube. You’re welcome.  

    Choices. Choices were made when it came to 1983 low budget slasher flick “Sleepaway Camp.” James and Giselle cover everything from the movie’s absurdity, out of place characters, unintentional (?) homoeroticism, and they discuss the problematic element (trigger warning) of transphobia within the ending’s “twist.”  

    ANT-tonio Banderes? ANT-tony? Don’t let the title fool you, this week the hosts talk about “Antman and the Wasp”! James and Giselle discuss the movie along with the characters of Hope and Janet. They also came up with the story for the third Spiderman movie, hence the episode title, and you are welcome in advance.  

    It’s “Atomic Blonde” time, everyone! This week James and Giselle gush over the movie’s aesthetic, the action, James McAvoy as a degenerate (oh my), and Charlize Theron kicking ass. They also discuss the presence of Delphine, LGBTQIA representation in film/tv and narrative, along with male/female gaze.  

    Time to get back into the creepy waters of ‘Black Mirror’. Yay? :D In this go around the hosts discuss ‘Nosedive’ and what it is about this specific episode that resonated with both of them. They talk about the story’s relevance along with their own personal feelings towards social media.  

    In this week’s episode James and Giselle discuss this year’s most heartwarming family film: Deadpool 2. No, really! The movie is totally about the importance of family. And violence. And obscenity. And, ya know, other moral stuff. Wibbly wobbly timey wimey! Woohoo!  

  The hosts saw a Star War! In this episode James and Giselle discuss ‘Solo.’ They talk about Han and Chewie’s meet cute, argue over space jellyfish, gush over the magic that is Lando, and dream of a world with more badass space bandit Val.  

    That’s right, it’s time to talk about ‘Infinity War.’ The hosts talk about their favorite moments, gush over Gamora and Scarlet Witch, marvel at Captain America’s beard, and dream of a world where all of the Chrises combine into one Ultimate Chris.  

    In this go around James and Giselle argue about, uh, I mean discuss ‘Justice League’ totally like mature adults. They cover everything from the infamous CGI upper lip to Batman cracking dad jokes to debating this contemporary take on Superman.  

    The hosts this week talk about one of their favorite nostalgic flicks ‘Cruel Intentions’. They talk about what makes the movie such a fun, ridiculous, iconic cult hit along with discussing elements that are problematic. Also, can we please get the spin-off TV show already? And is Sebastian secretly into scrapbooking?  

    Yes, another episode dedicated to ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ (you’re welcome)! This time James and Giselle talk about ‘Prophecy Girl’, what made the episode so damn fun, along with semi-ranting about Xander/Anya, and yet again fawning over their newfound attraction to Rupert freaking Giles.

    The hosts jump on the nostalgia train and talk about one of their favorite movies “The Craft.” They discuss why the story still resonates to this day, gush over the fashion, go on an important tangent about sexy grey hair in the temples, and discover the *true* pronunciation Manon.  

    Time to go back on the Buffy train! Listen to the hosts discuss the season one episode “Nightmares” while they compare their own fears and lament over how their own cry faces aren’t nearly as cute as Sarah Michelle Gellar’s.  

    Time to talk about season two of “Jessica Jones”! James and Giselle discuss everything from mother/daughter dynamics, Jeri Hogarth, the storytelling, Jeri Hogarth, the cast, to Jeri Hogarth. And oh yeah they maybe talk a little bit about their queen Jeri F*cking Hogarth.  

    Listen to the hosts talk about “Spiderman: Homecoming” while they discuss the cast, flail over the adorableness that is Tom Holland and gush over the character Michelle. Also, a future Miles Morales MCU movie? Yes, please!